Gaon Mandir at Pawapuri
Gaon mandir or 'the village temple' marks the spot where Lord Mahavira breathed his last. It is said that this temple was built by King Nandivardhan, elder brother of Lord Mahavira. It is at this spot where the Lord addressed his last preachings our “updesha”. This “updesha” was supposed to be attended by many people, from across the country and from different walks of life. Knowing that his end was not far, Mahavira started his last “updesha”. He continued to preach till he gained “Nirvana”. Unable to bear the loss of the Lord all the people present there illuminated “diyas” (lamps) fuelled by ghee to lighten the atmosphere of sorrow. This tradition has continued till day.
Gaon mandir has a big compound along with a huge Dharamshala with all the neccessary basic amneties catering to the comfort of the pilgrims. The dedicatory stone of the temple records the restoration of Pawapuri during the reign of Emperor Shah Jahan in 1641 AD by Swetambar Sangh of Bihar under Acharya Jina Raja Suri.
Gaon Mandir Pawapuri Mahavira Shri Jain Swetambar Bhandar Tirth,
P.O. Pavapuri - 803115, District Nalanda
Bihar, India06112 274736 www.pawapuritirth.org